Traveling with a Baby: Essential Tips for a Smooth Journey

Traveling with a baby can feel like a daunting experience, especially if it’s your first time. Between deciding what to pack and planning feeding schedules and naps around the unknowns of travel delays, it’s no wonder many new parents feel overwhelmed when it comes to the first trip. But with the right preparation and mindset, traveling with your little one can be manageable—and even enjoyable! Whether you're flying, road-tripping, or just wondering how to keep your cool when the schedule changes, here’s everything you need to know about preparing to travel with a baby.

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Flying with a Baby

What to Pack for Baby’s First Flight

Before you head to the airport, make sure you have what you need! Here are the essentials to pack in your carry-on for baby’s first flight:

• Diapers and wipes: Bring one for each hour of travel, plus a few extras. Keep a diaper, a small set of wipes, and the changing pad together in a gallon plastic bag for convenience.
• Change of clothes: Pack an extra outfit for both you and your baby. (Accidents happen!)
• Feeding supplies: Make sure you have formula, bottles, or a nursing cover if you’re breastfeeding.
• Snacks: Think yogurt puffs, veggie straws, or other baby-friendly finger food if they’ve started solids.
• Toys: Make sure you have at least one activity to help  keep baby entertained. Easy-to-carry items might include teethers, black-and-white books, stuffed animals, and post-it notes. 
• Baby first aid kit: A basic first-aid kit can be a lifesaver on a trip. Include items like a baby thermometer, Infant Tylenol or fever reducer (check with your pediatrician for dosing), Band-aids and antiseptic wipes, saline nasal drops and a nasal aspirator, and baby nail trimmers and a file. 
• Baby proofing materials: Hotels and vacation rentals aren’t usually baby-proofed. Bring outlet covers, and keep an eye out for sharp corners or small objects within reach. For extra peace of mind, a portable baby monitor can help you keep an eye on your baby if they nap in a different room.
• Health records: If you’re traveling internationally, check with your pediatrician about any recommended vaccines for your destination. Make sure you also have your baby’s health records and a copy of their birth certificate on hand, just in case.

A compact stroller and baby carrier are also invaluable. Check if your stroller can be gate-checked so you can use it right up until boarding. “You may also want to purchase a gate check bag for your stroller and/or car seat to keep it dry in the event of rain during your flight. We were glad to have a dry seat after holding the baby all flight!” says Meghan Doyle, Partum Health co founder and CEO, and mother of two. 

Wearing your baby is another common option. You can carry your baby through the TSA metal detector in a sling or carrier, but be advised that according to FAA regulations, you cannot wear your baby during take-off and landing.  

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How to Plan for Baby’s First Flight

Here are some other tips on how to ace baby’s first flight!

1. Choose the Right Flight Time  

Try to book flights that align with your baby’s sleep schedule. Early morning or late evening flights can increase the likelihood of them napping on board, making the journey easier for both of you. If you're a bit flexible, consider non-stop flights to avoid the hassle of changing planes with all your baby’s gear.

2. Take Advantage of Accommodations

Many airports offer TSA Cares, a fast-tracked security line for families with small children, that you can access even without TSA Precheck or Clear. You can request TSA Cares in advance or when you arrive at the airport. 

It can't hurt to review the airport map before starting your trip: look for the locations of family restrooms, and see if there are any play areas to get out extra energy before boarding. If offered by your airline, be sure to take advantage of family boarding for easier seating, too!

3. Help with Ears During Takeoff and Landing  

Babies are sensitive to pressure changes, especially during takeoff and landing. Feeding, pacifiers, or even a bottle of water (for older babies) can help by encouraging them to swallow, which eases ear pressure.

4. Be Flexible and Patient  

Babies are unpredictable, and travel can throw off even the best-laid plans. Give yourself extra time at the airport, expect some fussiness, and keep a flexible mindset. Other passengers might understand more than you expect! And remember, at the end of the day, you can’t control when your baby cries, nor can you control other people’s reaction to it. Practice meditation or affirmations to help you manage the stress of a situation that’s out of your control.

As Meghan explains, “travel can be hard to predict - from unexpected flight delays to the uncertainty of how your little one will respond in the air. The key is to try and roll with the punches and stay calm through any tears, spit ups, or blowouts that come your way.”

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Road-Tripping with a Baby

If driving is more your style, check out these tips to make your first long-haul car ride with baby go smoothly. 

1. Plan Your Route with Frequent Stops

Long road trips can be challenging with a baby. Plan to stop every 2-3 hours to let your little one stretch, change diapers, and get some fresh air. Depending on your feeding or nursing schedule these stops allow you to keep baby fed while you travel. Stopping at parks or rest areas can make these breaks enjoyable.

2. Keep the Car Seat Comfortable and Safe  

Safety is priority one. Make sure your car seat is installed correctly and adjusted for your baby’s size. If you need a refresher, most car seat manufacturers have tutorials online. Adding a window shade can also help block out sunlight, making naps easier. Like in a crib, watch for any safe sleep issues like blankets or loose clothing. 

3. Pack a Car Bag with Essentials 

Keep essential items within reach, including diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, toys, and snacks. To save space, a diaper-changing mat is helpful for quick changes in the back seat or at a rest stop.

4. Consider Driving During Nap Times  

Driving during times when your baby is likely to nap can make for a quieter ride. If you have an overnight sleeper, an evening drive can be ideal (just make sure the driver is well-rested!). Some families will choose to leave after their baby’s last middle of the night wake up so they’re hitting the road before sunrise but getting several hours of sleep out for baby over those first few hundred miles.

5. Bring Entertainment  

For older babies, bring soft books or musical toys that don’t require batteries. Some parents create "travel-only" toys that only come out during car rides or flights to keep things fresh and entertaining. Sticky notes are fantastic for babies who are old enough to pinch and peel the pages off. They’ll stick to windows and fabric without leaving residue and you can even toss a crayon in the mix for another level of fun.

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Mental Health for Parents: Staying Calm and Enjoying the Journey

Having a plan to take care of yourself while traveling is just as important as a plan for baby. If you are experiencing upcoming travel stress, here are some tips to help keep your cool.

• Keep Expectations Realistic: You may not see all the sights or do everything on your itinerary—and that’s okay! Give yourself permission to have a slower-paced vacation. Focus on quality time with your family and let go of rigid schedules.
• Embrace Flexibility: Schedules can get disrupted when traveling. If things don’t go as planned, remember that babies are resilient. Take it one moment at a time, and don’t hesitate to take a break if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
• Share the Load: If you’re traveling with a partner or other family, divide responsibilities. Take turns with feedings, diaper changes, and entertainment duties. This helps keep you both energized and prevents burnout.
• Take Time for Self-Care: Even a few minutes to yourself can recharge you. Try to carve out little moments of rest, whether it’s a quiet coffee break while your partner takes a short walk while the baby naps. Self-care isn’t selfish—it makes you a better, more present parent.
• Celebrate Small Wins: The first trip with your baby will have its share of challenges, but it’s also full of milestones and bonding moments. Celebrate the little victories, like a successful nap on a plane or a calm stretch in the car. These moments build memories that make all the effort worthwhile.

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Traveling with a baby requires patience, preparation, and flexibility. By focusing on essentials, keeping health and safety top of mind, and giving yourself grace, you can make it a memorable experience for everyone. Each trip with your little one is a learning experience, helping you become more confident for future adventures. So go ahead—take that trip, make those memories, and enjoy this special time with your baby.

Will you be visiting family on this trip? Dr. Melissa Dennis, Partum Health Chief Medical Officer, shared some tips for setting boundaries and keeping you and baby comfortable in social gatherings.

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